It seems that no one was bluffing
These are times where the meaning of presence is writ large
Every step is sharpened and
proves it’s usefulness in taking us forward
Is it not the case that you have just left the table for a moment –
gone to the cellar,
only to return
to pour old wine with careful hands
and settle into your skin
ready to relish the next round of cut and thrust?
To close the circle would be dishonourable
Your place occupied by another unthinkable
Yet are all wondering what will happen there
in that space, this shape that you left behind
Is it for filling up
or leaving vacant?
For turning away from
or discussing at length?
Or perhaps we could walk with these questions
as you walked with us
until the tears run, and,
in tenderly holding our own hearts,
know that what is bottomless
is love itself.
(for Steve, rest in peace brother,
until next time x )